Grand Iberian Adventure Spain to Portugal

As you arrive in Madrid, you'll begin your adventure with a convenient transfer to your accommodation, allowing you to settle in and start your journey smoothly. You'll have some free time to explore the vibrant capital of Spain, perhaps wandering through its bustling streets or enjoying a relaxing moment at a local caf. Later in the afternoon, relevant tour information will be made available for you at the hotel reception, ensuring you're well-prepared for the exciting journey ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We begin our day with an early departure, journeying across the vast landscapes of Castile and Len. Our first stop is the historic town of Tordesillas, where we delve into its rich past while enjoying a coffee in the lively main square. Continuing our journey, we arrive in Len, a city steeped in history and an important waypoint on the Camino de Santiago. You'll have time here for lunch and a visit to the awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, an architectural treasure.Our adventure then takes us through the scenic Cantabrian Range as we travel towards Asturias. We arrive in Oviedo in the evening, where a local guide will lead us on an insightful one-and-a-half-hour tour of the cityeither upon arrival or the following morning. This tour includes visits to the 9th-century cathedral and notable landmarks such as the Congress Palace, Campoamor Theatre, and the charming Calle Ra. To complete our day, we enjoy a traditional Asturian dinner at a typical cider house, immersing ourselves in the region's unique culinary heritage. Please note: Should we have a small number of travellers from Madrid to Len, the journey may be undertaken by train or regular transportation, in which case we will not stop in Tordesillas.

On the third day of our journey, we set off to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the Picos de Europa. Our first stop is the revered Basilica of Covadonga, a site of great cultural and historical significance nestled in a stunning mountainous landscape. Moving on, we travel along the coastline to reach Santillana del Mar, celebrated as one of Spain's most beautiful towns, boasting a perfectly preserved medieval quarter. Here, we take the opportunity to visit the Altamira Cave Museum, where you can delve into the world of prehistoric art (entry tickets are included). Later in the day, we head to Santander, the capital of the region. Known for its picturesque views of both the mountains and the sea, Santander offers a delightful blend of natural and urban beauty. We partake in a panoramic tour with a knowledgeable local guide, providing an insightful exploration of this elegant coastal city and its charming bay.

As we journey along the motorway, the scenic beauty of the Cantabrian coast unfolds, where rugged mountains meet the sea. Our destination is Bilbao, the vibrant largest city in the Basque Country. Here, we embark on a guided city tour to explore prominent sites such as the Guggenheim area, the historic old quarter, and the majestic Cathedral. Following this, you'll have the freedom to savour traditional "pintxos" at your leisure a delightful culinary experience. Our adventure then continues to La Rioja, celebrated worldwide for its exquisite wines. At the Wine Culture Museum in Briones, we delve into the rich history and artistry of winemaking. We plan to arrive in Zaragoza by evening, ready to soak up the city's unique charm.

Today, we begin with a guided panoramic tour of Zaragoza, led by a local expert. Our exploration starts at the iconic Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. A delve into the works of Goya follows, allowing us to admire some of his renowned masterpieces. The tour continues as we visit the Roman theatre and a Renaissance palace, concluding with a walk by the Aljafera Palace. After lunch, we head towards Catalonia to visit the impressive Poblet Abbey, a beautifully preserved medieval monastery set in serene surroundings. Admission tickets are included for our visit. Our day concludes as we make our way to the vibrant city of Barcelona, where we will arrive in the evening.

In the morning, we set out on a panoramic tour of Barcelona, a city famed for its intriguing blend of history and modern flair. As we explore this vibrant metropolis along the Mediterranean, marvel at the architectural masterpieces of Gaud, wander along the lively Ramblas, and uncover the city's rich heritage, showcased by notable events like the Universal Exposition and the Olympics. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisureperhaps delve into the local culture or savour Catalonian cuisine at your own pace. In the evening, we provide a transfer to Maremagnum, a contemporary dining and entertainment hub by the sea, conveniently located near Plaza de Coln. Here, soak in the lively atmosphere as you choose where to dine and spend the remainder of your evening.

Our journey continues as we head south along the Mediterranean coast, taking a break in the picturesque medieval town of Pescola. Here, you'll find time to wander its historic streets, embraced by beautiful beaches and featuring an enchanting castle that overlooks the sea. Well then proceed to Valencia, reaching the vibrant port city around lunchtime. In the afternoon, a local guide will lead us on a tour of Valenciarich in over 2,000 years of history. You'll witness an intriguing blend of ancient monuments alongside the contemporary architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences. After the tour, you have free time to explore the city's lively atmosphere at your own pace. We'll gather again in the evening to enjoy a traditional local dinner, savouring the flavours of the region.

We continue our journey to the captivating city of Alicante, where you can take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning sea views. After lunch, we make our way to the Murcia region to visit Caravaca de la Cruz. This unique place is recognised as a Holy City by the Roman Catholic Church and houses a relic of the true Cross. Here, we'll hop onto a tourist train that will take us to the historic area, allowing us to delve into its rich religious heritage. Our adventure continues as we travel through picturesque rural landscapes on our way to Andalusia, culminating in the vibrant city of Granada, where a delicious dinner awaits.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the wonders of Granada. Should your itinerary include entry, we will delve into the splendid Alhambra Palace and its exquisite Generalife Gardens, both exquisite examples of Moorish art and architecture. These stunning landmarks provide a glimpse into the grandeur of the Al-Andalus era. The afternoon will be yours to explore the city at your own pace. We recommend visiting the cathedral, renowned for housing the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs, a pivotal place in Spanish history. Please note: Admission to the Alhambra is rigorously controlled by local regulations. To secure your spot, it is crucial to submit accurate personal details (full name and passport/ID number) when booking your tour. Unfortunately, ticket costs are non-refundable. In the unlikely event that a visit to the Alhambra is not feasible, we will arrange a visit to the Royal Alczar of Seville instead, offering a similarly enriching experience.

On day ten, we depart from Granada and head towards the sun-drenched Costa del Sol. Our first stop is Mlaga, where you'll have time to explore the historic district, known for its beautiful cathedral and the captivating Picasso Museum. We then continue along the scenic coastal highway, soaking in stunning Mediterranean vistas, until we reach Puerto Bans in Marbella. This sophisticated marina is a haven of luxury yachts and stylish boutiques. Following a short break, we journey into the mountains. We'll regale you with tales of bandits from days gone by as we travel to the captivating town of Ronda. Perched dramatic over a deep canyon, Ronda offers breathtaking views and a unique charm. Our day concludes with an evening arrival in Seville, where a delightful dinner awaits at the hotel.

Today, we explore the vibrant city of Seville. Our morning begins with a guided tour, showcasing the city's remarkable sights. Well visit the grand cathedral, home to the famous Giralda tower, and take in the views along the banks of the Guadalquivir River. We'll wander through the charming Santa Cruz and Triana neighbourhoods, known for their rich history and lively atmosphere. Following the tour, relax on a scenic boat ride along the Guadalquivir River, which offers breathtaking panoramas of Seville's cityscape. In the evening, you have the optional opportunity to experience the passion of flamenco at a traditional tablao.

As we depart Seville, we journey through the scenic landscapes of rolling hills and sprawling pastures en route to the region of Extremadura. Our first stop is Mrida, where we include admission to the Archaeological Ensemble, an exceptional Roman site featuring a well-preserved theatre and amphitheatre, recognised as a World Heritage Site. You'll have some time here to enjoy lunch and wander through the pedestrianised historic centre, alive with restaurants and local charm. Following our visit, we cross into Portugal, making a stop at vora, another gem on the World Heritage list, celebrated for its whitewashed streets, Renaissance palaces, and impressive cathedral. We conclude the day in Lisbon, arriving in the evening.

On the thirteenth day of our journey, we'll delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Lisbon. Our morning begins with a guided tour through this captivating city, famously known as the city of seven hills. Lisbon enchants visitors with its quaint streets, iconic tilework, and a unique sense of "saudade" a term that captures a feeling of longing and nostalgia. Along the tour, we'll also explore the historic Belem neighbourhood, a district of great significance as the departure point for many renowned Portuguese explorers of the 15th century. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Consider wandering through Bairro Alto, a lively part of the city known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning viewpoints. Alternatively, you might wish to partake in an optional excursion to the picturesque towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril, each offering its own charm and beauty. As evening draws in, we'll gather at Restauradores Square, a hub of energising bars and cafes, before returning to our hotel. This day promises both rich history and the chance to savour Lisbon's modern vibrancy at your own pace.

On day 14, our adventure continues as we leave Portugal behind, traversing the scenic Alentejo region en route to Spain. Our first stop is the charming town of Estremoz, where a refreshing coffee break awaits. This town is a delightful blend of medieval charm, with its cobblestone streets and impressive castle surrounded by tranquil beauty that captures authentic Portuguese essence.Back on the road, we cross the border into Spain, journeying towards Cceres. Here, youll have the opportunity to savour lunch and explore the historic centre, celebrated for its remarkably preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. Renowned globally, its cobbled streets are steeped in history, offering a captivating glimpse into Spain's past.In the evening, we continue our travels to Madrid, where the bustling Spanish capital awaits us with its vibrant cultural scene.

Following breakfast, our tour concludes, marking the end of an unforgettable journey filled with cherished memories.